The annual “Good Design Award” is given to ambitious and innovative designs. Founded by Edgar Kaufmann in 1950, it is one of the most prestigious design prizes worldwide. The autonomous flying Air Penguins received the distinguished prize in 2009. They are cutting edge examples of biomechatronics – the integration of mechanical elements, electronics, and biological functions. They are the embodiment of efficiency and self- regulating motion sequences which will play an ever increasing role in manufacturing.

The Chicago Athenauem Museum of Architecture and Design is host, organizer, and sponsor of the awards. Yearly, over 3000 applicants from more than 40 nations go there for a shot at the coveted awards. Evaluation criteria include: innovation, form, material, construction, concept, function, practical use, and aesthetics. The museum will be hosting an exhibition of the previous year’s winners in June 2010. The winners can already be seen on the homepage at: www.chi-athenaeum.org.

We see the prize as confirmation of our dedicated work. For this autonomous flying, for example, a new type of control and regulating technology was developed. This allows up to three AirPenguins, without human intervention, to explore a room as they wish.